Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Africa CDC Industrial Fellowship Programme provides recent graduates with hands-on training in vaccine manufacturing to address workforce gaps across Africa. The initiative develops practical skills, strengthens technical competencies, and promotes expertise in cGMP standards while supporting employability within African biomanufacturing institutions.
Program Overview
The Africa CDC Industrial Fellowship Programme, launched in collaboration with the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (AVMI), aims to build a sustainable pipeline of biomanufacturing talent across Africa. The programme addresses the shortage of industrial placements, reduces reliance on overseas training, and equips graduates with skills aligned to vaccine research and manufacturing competency frameworks.
Key Highlights:
- Target participants: Recent graduates (≤3 years post-degree)
- Eligible fields: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomanufacturing
- Funding: Return flights, visa fees, documentation costs, and a minimal living stipend
- Languages: English or French
- Focus: Practical training, cGMP competency, workforce development
Objectives and Scope
The programme seeks to:
- Build sustainable vaccine manufacturing talent within Africa
- Provide hands-on industrial experience and technical training
- Strengthen graduates’ competencies in current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)
- Reduce reliance on external training programmes and associated financial/logistical challenges
- Promote gender equity and inclusivity in biomanufacturing roles
The fellowship addresses challenges such as high costs and visa restrictions associated with overseas training, and the limited availability of industrial placements for graduates seeking practical experience.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be recent graduates (≤3 years post-degree) with a Bachelor’s or Master’s in relevant fields
- Be citizens of an African Union Member State
- Hold a valid passport
- Be available to participate in designated host countries
- Be proficient in English or French
Africa CDC encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of gender, race, disability, religion, caste, or marital status, with a particular emphasis on women applicants.
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility based on degree, nationality, and language proficiency
- Prepare academic transcripts, CV, and proof of citizenship
- Submit an application through the Africa CDC online portal or designated submission process
- Await selection and placement in one of the designated host institutions
- Complete the fellowship period, gaining practical skills and technical competencies
Programme Benefits
- Hands-on experience in vaccine manufacturing
- Exposure to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)
- Networking and mentorship within African biomanufacturing institutions
- Minimal stipend to cover daily living expenses
- Travel and visa support for designated host countries
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting applications beyond three years post-degree
- Applying without a valid passport or necessary travel documentation
- Ignoring language proficiency requirements
- Failing to align educational background with eligible fields
- Neglecting to provide accurate contact information or supporting documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who is eligible to apply?
Recent graduates (≤3 years) from AU Member States with relevant degrees in science, pharmacy, biotechnology, or engineering fields. - What costs are covered by the programme?
Return flights, visa fees, documentation, and a minimal stipend for daily living. - What languages are required?
English or French proficiency is required. - How long is the fellowship?
Duration is determined by the host institution and project, typically several months. - Does the programme support women applicants?
Yes, there is strong emphasis on encouraging women to apply. - Where will the fellowship take place?
In designated host countries across Africa with participating biomanufacturing institutions. - What competencies will fellows gain?
Practical vaccine manufacturing skills, cGMP knowledge, and industry-ready experience.
Conclusion
The Africa CDC Industrial Fellowship Programme 2026 provides an essential pathway for building Africa’s vaccine manufacturing workforce. By offering practical, hands-on experience and technical training, the initiative equips recent graduates with the skills needed to contribute to sustainable vaccine production and strengthen the continent’s self-reliance in biomanufacturing.
For more information, visit Africa CDC.